When We Were Lions
Charlie Simpson · 2010
17 min · 5 tracks · alternative rock
Melodic alternative rock intertwines heartfelt lyrics with a raw, introspective energy that resonates throughout the album.
Top tracks — play these first
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When We Were Lions — This title track encapsulates the album's themes of nostalgia and reflection, combining poignant lyrics with an anthemic chorus that invites listeners into Simpson's emotional landscape.
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If I Hide, Will You Come Looking? — This track stands out for its haunting melody and evocative lyrics about vulnerability and uncertainty, making it a compelling exploration of personal struggles.
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The Farmer & His Gun — With its storytelling approach, this song illustrates Simpson's ability to weave narratives into his music, highlighting themes of loss and resilience within a rich sonic backdrop.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The EP showcases strong songwriting and emotional depth, though it doesn't fully break new ground in its genre.
What we noticed
- The first track opens with a slow build, layering guitars and vocals that gradually increase in intensity over its duration.
- Each song features a prominent use of dynamic shifts, often transitioning from quiet verses to explosive choruses.
- Lyrically, the EP employs vivid imagery and personal storytelling, with several tracks featuring repeated refrains that enhance their emotional impact.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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5/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady mid-tempo reflective moments
- melancholic melodies for introspection
- brief yet impactful listening experience
- heartfelt lyrics that resonate deeply
Maybe skip if you
- seekers of high-energy tracks
- prefer standalone singles over albums
Where this album fits
- Career context
- When We Were Lions is Charlie Simpson's debut solo album, released in 2010 after his tenure with the band Busted and subsequent project Fightstar. This release marked a significant shift from his pop-punk roots to a more mature sound, showcasing his growth as a songwriter and artist.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Biffy Clyro· Fightstar· Deaf Havana
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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When We Were Lions
The chorus shifts from reflective tones to a powerful declaration about embracing one's past and identity.
This dynamic shift emphasizes the contrast between memory and present self-awareness, anchoring the song’s emotional core.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 When We Were Lions 3:43
- 2 If I Hide, Will You Come Looking? 2:34
- 3 The Farmer & His Gun 3:52
- 4 Bullet 3:29
- 5 Lost 3:41
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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